There are some new services available for this particular problem. Basically, you have the phone number in the call box changed to a service providers phone number, which opens the door to all sorts of cool stuff.
There’s even a service that integrates directly with Airbnb and will automatically send your guests unique codes to use. These require no hardware modifications and don’t require your building’s involvement other than to change the phone number one time.
Services Using Existing Hardware
- DIY Service - Use Twilio & Zapier to create your own [free] solution.
- EveryDoor - No pricing provided. You have to setup a demo.
- Buzz Me Home - $5.99 per month per property
- Ringo - Plans ranging from $3.99 to $18.99 per month
- Easy Buzzer - Plans are $3.99+
- Guesty - 3% fee which also includes management
- Call Box - Free for 30 days, then $5 bucks per month
- Door Buzzing - $10 per month
New or Modified Hardware Required
- DIY Hack Option - if you are good with electronics, might be a fun project!
- Nello - Pre-order available now for $89 bucks. Reg price is $189.
- Monkey - this was a project on Kickstarter which looked interesting.
- ButterflyMX - See website for details.
Key Exchange Services
- Key Cafe - they offer to setup with a local coffee shop if you give them the address and contact information.
- City CoPilot - offers key exchange in addition to luggage service, delivery, airport transportation
Key Lockboxes
Realtor Lockbox - find a place to hang or mount one of these. I have one in an adjacent parking garage’s stairwell which works fine.
Igloo Smart Box - $169 bucks but allows for codes, bluetooth and automation
Rock Lock - very promising if it ships. Pre-order for only $59.
Please note: There’s also mention of smart buzzers on this thread.